Originally developed by shepherds sitting next to the fire at night, the tradition of stick dressing as a craft has been kept alive by Morebattle Stick Dressers’ Association and this year the group is celebrating its 30th anniversary.

The band, under the direction of Selkirk-based conductor, arranger and teacher Alan Fernie, had only got together for the first time in September. And after only four rehearsals the band entered the senior section (18 and under) of the Scottish Youth Band Championships as part of the Scottish Festival of Brass.

It was four years since the SBYBB last took part in the event – and this time every town band in the Borders and Langholm were represented.

“It was evident that this was something special from the very first rehearsal and the performance today was one of the highlights of my banding career,” said Alan Fernie. “This fantastic result is testament to all the hard work from the teachers, tutors, conductors and bands who have encouraged these youngsters to become fine musicians in our fantastic brass band movement in the Scottish Borders,” he added.

As a result of the Perth success, SBYBB has qualified for European Youth Championships to be held in Ostend, Belgium, at end of April 2017.

“It is going to be a challenge to get the band to Belgium financially, but we are determined to do this for the youngsters,” explained Scottish Borders Brass Band Association secretary Keith Belleville, adding: “We will now look at a fund-raising programme and would love to hear from anyone – business, organisation or individual – who can help us with this unique project.”

Anyone who can help should contact Keith on 07775 557156 or email him at KJBelleville@aol.com.

Plans for a £40m whisky distillery near Jedburgh are being recommended for approval in principle next week, paving the way for the creation of a tourist attraction expected to provide jobs for up to 50 people.

Though there is still much uncertainty over the impact on the Borders economy of Britain’s exit from the European Union, there are key issues that businesses here should be considering now, according to a former MP for the region.